The lecture is a nod to the College’s connection to James A. Garfield, who in addition to being the 20th President of the United States, was also a student at Hiram College – then called the Western Reserve Eclectic Institute – and served as the institution’s highest leader.

Gephardt has been with the James A. Garfield National Historic site since June 2009. He previously served as an Interpretation Ranger at Hampton National Historic Site and Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. He holds a B.A. from Towson University and an M.A. from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

The Friends of the Hiram College Library has supported the Library through fundraising and volunteer efforts since its founding in 1984.